Job: Audit Senior
Name: Vicky Inch
University attended: University of Southampton
Degree obtained: BSc (Hons) Biology
Age: 25

Vicky joined the business services team at Tenon’s Southampton office in September 2002, and qualified as an Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) in 2005. One of her memorable client experiences was working for an associated firm of accountants in Melbourne, Australia for three months.

Entering the world of accountancy I wanted to join a firm where I would be given the opportunity to work with clients with whom I could really make a difference and a positive impact on their business. When I first started at Tenon I was required to spend six months in three core departments of our office in order to get a more rounded experience.

Balancing studies and work

Having studied biology at university, I came from a completely non-business or accounting background. At first, studying and working at the same time took a bit of getting used to, but everyone was really supportive in the office. There were other trainees, so it was nice to be able to talk to them and know they were in the same situation.

Training

During the first three years, I attended five Tenon Academy courses, Tenon’s own national, internal, training programme. These are held at sites around the country with all employees, from the different offices, who are at the same stage in their training. The courses provide us with technical training, which is useful to the ACA training we receive for the exams and the development of the soft skills required for career development. Additionally, the Tenon Academy courses are an excellent opportunity to meet people from other offices, and help to foster positive, working relationships with colleagues. Communication skills are essential, as we spend every day working in teams and meeting new clients.

Client experience

Last year, I was given the opportunity to work for an associated firm of accountants in Melbourne, Australia for three months. This experience improved my knowledge and skills, and boosted my confidence tremendously. I gained experience in new accounting practices and worked with several, different types of business. Secondments are also available to other departments within the office, as well as within Tenon nationally.

Future plans

The opportunities to develop your career are excellent. Tenon always encourages career progression, and from an early stage I was given additional responsibility in managing smaller jobs. Last July I was promoted to Audit Manager with responsibility for a large portfolio of clients and staff.